By Adam Said Adam, Kano
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), has started a 10-day training workshop to help agricultural extension workers better support farmers in managing climate risks.
The training, which runs from July 6 to 17 in Abuja, focuses on Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension (CRMAE). It aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to deliver climate information that will help farmers adapt to changing weather conditions.
- NiMet to transform delivery of climate information to farmers nationwide
- How climate change inhibits Nigeria’s 35m people with disabilities
The workshop is part of a broader project supported by AGRA to strengthen climate advisory services and promote resilient farming systems across Africa.
Speaking at the opening, NiMet’s Director General, Prof. Charles Anosike, said climate change is increasingly affecting farming through irregular rainfall, heat, flooding, and pest outbreaks. He stressed the need to turn weather and climate data into practical advice that farmers can use.
He described extension workers as a vital link between climate experts and farmers, helping translate scientific information into decisions on planting, crop selection, water use, and soil management.
Prof. Anosike added that training extension officers will improve the reach and impact of climate services across the country. He noted that the Nigeria-adapted CRMAE curriculum will help extension workers better support smallholder farmers.
He urged participants to share what they learn with farmers, cooperatives, and rural communities, and called for stronger collaboration to promote climate-resilient agriculture and food security in Nigeria.
Other speakers at the event praised NiMet for its efforts in improving climate services and highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening agricultural resilience.
